|Introduction
|Identification Key
|
Order Trichoptera
(Caddisflies)
The Trichoptera are a highly advanced order of insects closely related to the
Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths). All caddisflies undergo complete metamorphosis
and the larvae of all species are aquatic. In North America there are greater than
1200 species of caddisflies. Adults are terrestrial and mothlike in appearance,
while the larvae are somewhat caterpillarlike, with a well developed head capsule
and thoracic legs. Caddisfly larvae are found in a variety of aquatic habitats.
Examples of common caddisflies include: